On Hybrid Work 2024: Sony Electronics

Kana Fukushima, Senior Manager of Marketing, Professional Display Solutions at Sony Electronics
(Image credit: Future)

AVT Question: Please share your insight into trends that will play a role in hybrid workplace culture, space planning, and technologies in 2024.

Thought Leader: Kana Fukushima, Senior Manager of Marketing, Professional Display Solutions at Sony Electronics

Hybrid working offers the promise of a best-of-both-worlds scenario for employees, combining the flexibility of remote work with the benefits of in-person collaboration. However, to fully realize this potential, organizations must establish a solid technology foundation and strategic planning to ensure a seamless and productive experience across all workspaces.

Office layout plays a pivotal role in enabling effective hybrid work environments. Many organizations are embracing collaborative spaces and flexible desk arrangements, reimagining traditional office layouts to promote agility and facilitate increased technology integration. Integrators must carefully consider which innovations to deploy, and how they will enhance both in-person and remote participation.

With video conferencing emerging as the preferred method of workplace communication, selecting technologies that deliver high-quality sound, video, and presentation capabilities is paramount." —Kana Fukushima, Senior Manager of Marketing, Professional Display Solutions at Sony Electronics

With video conferencing emerging as the preferred method of workplace communication, selecting technologies that deliver high-quality sound, video, and presentation capabilities is paramount. Additionally, the rise of collaboration tools, remote solutions, and cloud platforms underscores the importance of connectivity and security. Ensuring a reliable, safe, and connected experience from any location is critical for maintaining productivity and inclusivity. 

Another big trend driving meeting equity, immersion, and inclusivity is the adoption of 21:9 aspect ratio displays. This format offers a more natural and realistic form of communication and collaboration, regardless of participants’ locations. Integrators and employers must consider mounting solutions, panel configurations, mounting locations, and optimal orientations based on room layouts and specific use cases.

As data and analytics become increasingly important in decision making, technology and AV systems can play a pivotal role in creating efficiencies. Insights into room usage, productivity, and collaboration can inform future decisions, ensuring each space maximizes its potential and aligns with organizational goals.

Navigating the hybrid workplace requires a holistic approach to technology integration and space planning. By leveraging innovative solutions and strategic insights, organizations can foster collaboration, enhance productivity, and create inclusive hybrid work environments. 

Cindy Davis
Brand and content director of AV Technology

Cindy Davis is the brand and content director of AV Technology (AVT). She was a critical member of the AVT editorial team when the title won the “Best Media Brand” laurel in the 2018 SIIA Jesse H. Neal Awards. Davis moderates several monthly AV/IT roundtables and enjoys facilitating and engaging in deeper conversations about the complex topics shaping the ever-evolving AV/IT industry. She explores the ethos of collaboration, hybrid workplaces, experiential spaces, and artificial intelligence to share with readers. Previously, she developed the TechDecisions brand of content sites for EH Publishing, named one of the “10 Great Business Media Websites” by B2B Media Business magazine. For more than 25 years, Davis has developed and delivered multiplatform content for AV/IT B2B and consumer electronics B2C publications, associations, and companies. A lifelong New Englander, Davis makes time for coastal hikes with her husband, Gary, and their Vizsla rescue, Dixie, sailing on one of Gloucester’s great schooners and sampling local IPAs. Connect with her on LinkedIn